It’s been a week since the annual VMA’s, which would usually indicate some big thing has happened in pop culture, but that’s not quite the case this year. There was no twerking Miley, or next level Beyonce performance. We got one really intriguing music video premiere from Taylor Swift, but that would be news with or without a half-hearted award’s show to air it. While nothing really made insurmountable waves strictly in the entertainment world, there was one part of the show in particular that did stand out and make an overwhelmingly important impact: Logic’s performance of 1-800-273-8255.

The song, entitled after the number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, touches base on the empty feeling brought on by depression and the want to no longer exist. While this is a conversation that has been opening up slowly in our society over recent times, this track and the platform it was given have boosted discussion surrounding an otherwise considered taboo topic. Rather than just walk on stage, do his thing, and walk off nonchalantly, Logic made it a point to emphasize the meaning behind his lyricism and why it’s something we all need to hear loud and clear. He calls out the mainstream media for bowing out of the mental health discussion, and thanks his audience for allowing him to have a voice that is far reaching enough that he himself can make an impact where it’s needed. What is truly admirable is that he is not standing alone in front of 5.4 million viewers to preach about inclusion and getting help no matter your predicament, but he is joined by those who know the struggle first hand. Alongside him are suicide loss and attempt survivors of all ages and backgrounds, coming together to raise awareness that this problem is real, it’s out there, and no one is exempt from experiencing the heartache mental illness can bring to us as individuals.

The Director of Communications at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline has reported a 50% increase in calls since the airing of Logic’s performance at the VMA’s. This is just further proof that talking about the issues at hand only helps to find beneficial resolutions, and at a quicker pace than it does to keep these very real problems quiet. The timing of this news is also significant, as one week from today, September 10th, is National Suicide Prevention Day. To know that there is someone willing to help you is sometimes all you need to know when you’re feeling your lowest. The unfortunate reality is that we all know somebody that needs this kind of help, whether it’s big or small scale. It’s a comfort to know that there are artists like Logic out there willing to speak about things that might make some people uncomfortable.

If you or anyone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out to 1-800-273-8255.